A fearless, down-to-earth Judge who spoke his mind: Tribute paid to Late Justice MM Shantanagoudar

An event organized by Karnataka State Bar Council on Saturday saw Judges and others pay tribute to Supreme Court Judge, Justice MM Shantanagoudar, who passed away unexpectedly in April this year. ."The country has lost a common man's Judge", Chief Justice of India NV Ramana said in his address."Justice Shanatangoudar had a humble origin, in a small village in Karnataka. He was interested in taking up the cases of the poor and the underprivileged, while he was practicing. His contribution to Judiciary is indisputable. More than anything, his judgements were simple, abundant, practical and immense with common sense", CJI Ramana further recalled. .The Chief Justice of India went on to remark,"I witnessed his (Justice Shantanagouder's) legal acumen. He was always prepared for hearings. One thing which stood out was his sense of humour and infectious laughter. Inspite of all his health reasons, he always came to sit for hearings. I asked him not to strain and he said that he can't sit at home. He was built with a different fibre. He sat for hearings till the last day.".Supreme Court Judge and former Karnataka High Court Chief Justice, AS Oka observed,"The entire legal world received a shock on April 24, hearing the untimely demise of the Late Justice. He was known as a Judge who spoke his mind, he was known as a fearless Judge who upheld the liberties of individuals.".He went on to recount how Justice Shantanagoudar was a down-to-earth person, as also attested to by a member of his staff. "I found him to be very friendly and down-to-earth. One of his staff members is now working with me - he described him as a simpleton and a kindhearted person. He was like my elder brother when I was serving as the Chief of Karnataka High Court. He actively supported all endeavors of the KSLSA ", Justice Oka recounted. .Acting Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, Justice Sathisha Chandra Sharma, recalled,"Late Justice Shantanagoudar was a very bright student. His brilliant career as a Judge came to end in April due to his untimely demise. He was a fearless Judge and has delivered many important Judgements, both as a High Court and Supreme Court Judge.".Adding to this, Supreme Court Judge and former Karnataka High Court Judge, Justice BV Nagarathna said,"He always was patient during hearings and exhibited all the true qualities of a Judge. He reminds me to watch my words and actions. He related everything to his conscience. He always said common man and seeker of justice always looked upon the Judiciary with high hope.".In a message addressed to Justice Shantanagoudar's children, Justice Nagarathna added,"Always remember the great legacy of your father and I pray that you have the strength to bear this immense loss.".Advocate General Prabhuling Navadgi observed that, "He will always be remembered as a Judge with a practical and simple approach. But more than that, he was a good human being and a loyal friend.".Srinivasa Babu L, Chairman of the Karnataka State Bar Council recounted, "The Late Justice always wanted to learn more about technology and use it while dispensing Justice. He always viewed farmers are the backbone of our country and have passed judgements in this regard. He was a simpleton and always wanted to help people.".Justice Shantanagounder's son spoke at the event as well."My Father was my hero. He would often tell me - come what may, I'll be with you. You don't lose hope", he said. .The event also saw the presence of Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, JC Madhuswamy, the Minister of Law and Parliamentary Affairs (Karnataka).